Layering during colder weather is a must, so I like to make it fun by dressing in colorful tights, socks, and shoes. It makes running on the darker days so much brighter!
-Lydia
Get out the door and walk to the end of the block to start the run. It is easier to convince yourself to walk when you don't want to go outside, and it is easier to start the run if you are already out there.
-Maxx
I usually sleep with windows open so I get the shock of the cold over as soon as I get out of bed, then I have no excuse not to get outside.
-Chris
I do some exercises with resistance bands before the run to make sure my legs are nice and warm before I go out into the cold. I use the Pro-Tec Resistance bands we sell in the store. (They come in a set of three - light, medium and heavy resistance.)
-Calahan
I like to plan my routes (especially around the holidays) through neighborhoods so I can check out the Halloween decorations and Christmas lights!
-Maria
Have a goal, a good friend, and gratitude. Last month I participated in our store's mountain challenge where participants "climbed" Baker, Denali, or Everest by logging their daily elevation in runs, walks and hikes. It didn't matter if it was a downpour or freezing on some days, because if I didn't get out, I wouldn't reach my goal. On days I felt fatigue, my fiance was my accountability buddy who would walk with me in the mornings or pick me up from the top of hill climbs after work. He has been battling a yearlong knee injury, keeping him from his fitness aspirations, so my final tip is to be grateful. There are countless people who would love the opportunity to simply run around the neighborhood, but can't. If you are able to move, do so!
-Sierra
I enjoy running in the morning in the winters. I'll choose a route that will allow me to watch the sunrise! Plus the knowledge that I get to come back to a warm breakfast and coffee helps, too!
-Haley
Planning out your running route ahead of time is vital to a successful run during these darker evenings. Consider a route lined with street lamps and/or some amount of ambient lighting to ensure you can see AND you are seen!
-Christopher
Trying not to just hunker down & hibernate after dark, we go for a (very bundled up) stroll after dinner. (We’ll most likely do some kind of outdoor workout earlier in the day.) – Genevie & Steve
Embrace it!! That's the beauty of weather and changing seasons. I remember going running in college with my teammates in -20 degrees. We all had to check ourselves for frostbite when we returned, but it was a fun memory and getting out in the harsh conditions can make for a good story!
-Conner
When the days are colder, darker and wetter, I throw on a lot of layers of clothes and a headlamp and head out the door. I tell myself that I only need to go out for 10 minutes. What I find, though, is that I usually go out for a much longer run and come back feeling rejuvenated and happy. The first step is the hardest.
-Coach Carol Frazey
